Middle schooler helps homeless, 1 bus ticket at a time

The Ormond Beach Middle School student has been on a mission to help the homeless since late last year after a class visit to Daytona Beach's Star Family Center.

CHRIS GRAHAMSTAFF WRITER

ORMOND BEACH — When Emma Craig grows up, she hopes to help animals and become a veterinarian. But for now she is glad to lend a hand to people in need. "I'm happy to be able to help and do something," the 12-year-old seventh-grader said. The Ormond Beach Middle School student has been on a mission to help the homeless since late last year after a class visit to Daytona Beach's Star Family Center, which aids families and individuals who have recently been displaced by the economy. While she started out donating food and toys to the center, she has found a unique way to fulfill a need: buying bus tickets. Every month, the Star Family Center hands out Votran bus tickets to those who may need to go to the hospital or look for a job. On average, the center gives away as many as 100 bus tickets at a cost of up to $300 a month, said Raul Gonzalez, the center's director of operations. On Wednesday, the 12-year-old turned in the first 35 Votran tickets purchased through proceeds collected making beaded jewelry. She plans on purchasing more soon. "It may not seem like a lot," Gonzalez said about the number of tickets. "But that's 35 people that will be able to take care of a particular need." Gonzalez added the money the center would normally spend on bus tickets can now be used to purchase food or other necessities. He said if everybody did what Emma is doing, "this world would be a better place." "It's not often that we get to work with a middle school student," he said. "I hope that fire never goes out." Ormond Beach Deputy Mayor Bill Partington said he was impressed when he first learned of what Emma was doing. "I think it's awesome what she has done and it makes me feel great about our future," he said. "This is an example of the quality of our youth and sets an example for everyone to follow." Josh Pringle, the girl's stepfather, said watching Emma's dedication to the cause has been heartwarming. Not only has she been determined to raise funds for the Star Family Center, she has maintained her grades as well, Pringle said. "It just shows how hard she works," he said. "You hope when (your children) get in their teens and 20s you can look at them and know you did the right thing. That's already happening at age 12." Volusia County is also recognizing the efforts of Emma, who will be honored at the County Council meeting Feb. 7, Pringle said. But she isn't letting that go to her head. In fact, Emma encourages people to join the cause. "I think we all have to do more for them," she said.